RT says the new show will "focus on exploring issues that most affect working Americans, particularly within the context of the upcoming U.S. presidential election."

Schultz is a familiar face to U.S. television viewers and hosted MSNBC's daytime The Ed Show until last July when it was axed along with two other afternoon news shows.

Margarita Simonyan, RT's chief editor, said: “Ed Schultz is one of the best-known and well-respected progressive commentators in America. With Ed helming a show, we are continuing the tradition of collaborating with top international journalistic talent that engages our audience by providing in-depth coverage, analysis and commentary on important but underreported issues to millions of U.S. viewers.”

Schultz added: “I am very excited to be joining RT; the network is firmly established outside of U.S. corporate media and is not afraid to give a platform to diverse voices, stories and perspectives to its viewers, even if it ruffles some mainstream feathers. I can’t think of a better fit than a news broadcaster that bullishly pursues issues that matter to hardworking Americans.”

The new show will be produced out of RT America studios in Washington, DC.